FHS Jazz Band Competes in Massachusetts Association for Jazz Ed Finals

From left to right: Franklin High School Jazz Band members Weylan O'Connell, Aidan Padula, and Anton Sackley at Algonquin Regional High School in Northboro.
(Photo courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

Superintendent Lucas Giguere, Principal Joshua Hanna and Assistant Principal Michael Walsh have announced that the Franklin High School's jazz band competed in the Massachusetts Association for Jazz Education (MAJE) finals at Norwood High School on Saturday, March 16.

Franklin High School's Jazz Band of 30 students played three songs; Tito Puente's "Ran Kan Kan," Charles Mingus' "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat," and "Better Get Hit in Your Soul." The band played alongside 19 other bands from Massachusetts and performed for a panel of college professors and professional performing jazz artists for medal awards. They received a Superior Gold Medal for their performance and will advance to the Gold Medal Showcase on May 5 at the Hatch Memorial Shell at the Charles River Esplanade in Boston.

Prior to the state final, the Franklin High School Jazz Band performed in the Central District Festival at Algonquin Regional High School in Northborough on March 6. The group won a Superior Gold Medal and was one of three bands to advance to the finals.

"The band has had an incredible run in this concert series, and the Franklin School District couldn't be more proud," Superintendent Lucas Giguere said. "Their success is a testament to their work ethic and passion for music. I thank Band Director Leighanne Rudsit for her devotion to ensuring these students can share such achievements."

Franklin High School Jazz Band students at Algonquin Regional High School in Northboro. (Photo courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

Franklin High School Jazz Band students at Algonquin Regional High School in Northboro. (Photo courtesy Franklin Public Schools)